You wouldn’t believe it, but President Kennedy once had an Australian Silky Terrier for a pet! The sharp, intelligent, and lovable canine breed, originally bred to keep homes and barns free of rodents, found its way into the White House’s backyard and into the hearts of the Kennedy family in the early ’60s. Despite their ‘terrier’ name, these fluffy dogs are not a terror at all. They are delightful companions, full of energy and always ready to shower their owners with affection. But the big question remains; is an Australian Silky Terrier high maintenance?
Contrary to the general perception, the Australian Silky Terrier, also known as Silky for short, is not as high maintenance as people would imagine.
Despite the Silky’s royal appearance with the gorgeous, shimmering blue and silver coat, it does not require the amount of upkeep other similarly-sized or long-haired breeds need. Their hair, though long and silky, does not shed as much as other dogs, saving you the chore of constant clean-ups. Besides, they have a tropical ancestry, which means they are more resistant to common allergies, making them easier to manage and live with.
So, what exactly do you need to maintain the Silky’s elegance and charm? A weekly brushing session is sufficient for most dogs, just enough to ensure their coat is free of knots and tangles. Their coat grows continuously and at a slow rate. Furthermore, you might only need professional grooming services every six to eight weeks, which makes them a less finicky breed to deal with.
These dogs are small in size, approximately 9-10 inches tall and weighing about 8-10 pounds, making their diet a manageable aspect of their maintenance. A properly nourished Silky Terrier dog will have a shiny coat, good energy levels, and its overall health will be excellent.
Additionally, they are active and vibrant but do not require strenuous exercise to keep them in great shape. A daily walk or play session in the backyard is more than enough to meet their exercise needs. Unlike many high energy small dogs, the Silky Terrier is happy to lounge around and cuddle, making it a perfect fit for condos, apartments, or small dwellings.
In terms of behavior, the Silky Terrier has a sweet disposition, and they aren’t challenging to train. Like any other dog, it’s essential to train your Silky using positive reinforcement methods starting from puppyhood. Their ability to learn routines quickly, coupled with their eagerness to please their owners, makes them a joy to work with. In the hands of a firm and consistent owner, they can be well-mannered with just a few training sessions.
Though Australian Silky Terriers are generally robust, they are predisposed to certain health conditions that you should be aware of. Some dogs may suffer from patellar luxation, tracheal collapse, diabetes, or epilepsy. Regular veterinary check-ups can identify these health issues early enough and help manage them effectively.
Despite these potential health issues, the average lifespan of the Silky Terrier is pretty impressive. These dogs live between 12 to 15 years, with many of them staying active and healthy into their golden years.
To summarize, while the Australian Silky Terrier may appear to be a high-maintenance breed due to their glamorous look, they are surprisingly modest in their needs. Their intelligence, combined with their affectionate nature, makes them tomorrow’s star today! If you can afford the occasional hair trim every few weeks and maintain a regular exercise and feeding routine, you’ll find the Australian Silky Terrier to be a joy to live with, a companion like no other, and definitely not just a high-maintenance exhibition dog.
Remember, like any other dog breed, the Silky Terrier needs love, attention, and a safe environment to thrive. If you provide these important aspects and a consistent routine, there’s no reason why these dogs cannot become your low-maintenance, lovable companions who would love you just as much as you adore them. So, what do you say? Is there room in your heart and home for a Silky Terrier?
